CADDRE-Based Study of Autism Service Use and Expenditures

Kathleen Thomas, Ph.D., Principal Investigator

Alan R. Ellis, MSW, Project Analyst

Carolyn McLaurin, RN, MSW, MPH, Research Associate

This prospective study of autism services is an adjunct to an epidemiological research project based at UNC-CH that is part of the Centers for Disease Control multi-site CADDRE project to enumerate children with autism spectrum disorder (PI: Julie Daniels). We conducted a state-wide survey of middle school students with autism at two points in time to analyze service use and changes in use over time. Findings indicate that access to care is limited for families without a formal approach to care (Thomas et al., 2007). Manuscripts under preparation address common features of service packages and medication switching.